Eat to cheat dementia

 I have been enjoying reading dietitian, Ngaire Hobbins' book, Eat to Cheat Dementia. It reinforces the need to eat well as it looks after not only our hearts but also our brains!

We know that inflammation is bad for our brains and exercise and good food can stop this.  Here is my brief summary of the book:

Food

• Eat more antioxidants- put 5-6 colours of food on your plate
• No one food is magical but healthy eating is about eating combinations of good food
• Eating too much, even of healthy food, can cause inflammation

Exercise

• ​When it comes to exercise, "use it or lose it" rings true- keep active!
• Sedentary lives cause inflammation and weak bones and muscles. We know this from people who have spent time in zero gravity
• Plan to exercise or it doesn't happen!
• Try new exercises and activities- your brain likes to learn and be challenged
• Exercise should be a combination of aerobic, resistance, flexibility and balance

Water

• Drink water for your brain. Our sense of thirst declines as we age so drink even if you are not thirsty

If you are over 60 years

• Focus on eating enough protein and keep active to slow muscle loss